Cheerleader dies after being shot at high school bonfire, remembered for having 'spunk to her step'
Share and Follow

A tragic incident at a party on Sunday led to the untimely death of a high school cheerleader, who succumbed to severe brain injuries from a gunshot wound.

Kimber Mills, aged 18, was shot in the early hours of Sunday in a secluded area known as The Pit in Pinson, Alabama, according to a report by AL.com. The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspect as 27-year-old Steven Tyler Whitehead, who allegedly arrived at the scene around 12:24 a.m. and discharged his firearm multiple times following a heated verbal and physical confrontation. WVTM reported that the shooting occurred at a bonfire gathering.

Whitehead now faces three counts of attempted murder and is currently held on a bond set at $180,000.

Ashley Mills, Kimber’s sister, shared with AL.com that neither she nor any of the attendees were familiar with Whitehead. She mentioned that Whitehead attempted to engage in conversation with one of Kimber’s friends, which led the friend to inform her boyfriend, sparking a conflict that escalated to gunfire.

Kimber Mills cheerleading

Kimber Mills, who was just 18, had aspirations of attending the University of Alabama in 2026.

“Kimber was caught in the crossfire,” Ashley Mills said.

Kimber Mills was a senior at Cleveland High School, where she was a cheerleader and also ran track. Kimber Mills’ sister said she died on Wednesday night.

“Our sweet baby sister went to be with the Lord at 7:08 p.m. last night! She has had the biggest gathering for honor walk the doc has ever seen! She was and is so loved by so many. We will miss you Kimber! Everyone is free to share this post anywhere they feel necessary!” Ashley Mills wrote on Facebook.

According to the report, Kimber Mills was planning to attend the University of Alabama in 2026 with hopes of becoming a nurse.

Tyler Whitehead booking picture

Tyler Whitehead was arrested in relation to the shooting. (Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office)

Ashley Mills said her sister’s injuries were too severe, adding an honor walk was held on Tuesday afternoon.

“She has too much trauma to her brain,” Ashley Mills said. “She is breathing on her own with an assisted breathing machine… We do have her on a DNR because we don’t want to hurt her anymore trying to bring her back. We’ve already got it set up for her to be an organ donor because that’s what she wanted.”

“She had a little spunk to her step,” Ashley Mills said.

Kimber Mills cheerleading at a game

Kimber Mills, 18, was a cheerleader at Cleveland High School. (Rylie Cirbo)

Trussville Police Chief Eric Rush said Kimber Mills was shot in the head and leg and was taken to UAB Hospital in Birmingham.

Three other people were also injured in the shooting.

Rylie Cirbo, who knew Kimber Mills, told Fox News Digital: “I’d much rather her be known for her sunshine personality and big smile rather than the tragedy.”

“I’m thankful for all the joy she’s brought my other friends,” she said. “She seemed like a very bright light in so many lives.”

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Jesus Martinez charged with setting CTA Blue Line fire near Damen Blue Line stop in Wicker Park: Chicago Police Department

Chicago Police Department Charges Jesus Martinez in CTA Blue Line Arson Near Damen Station in Wicker Park

A man has been charged after allegedly igniting a fire on a…
George Clooney mourns 'hero' sister Ada after her death at 65

Heartfelt Tribute: George Clooney Honors Beloved Sister Ada, Remembering Her Heroic Legacy at 65

George Clooney is grieving the loss of his older sister, Adelia “Ada”…
NFL news: Chicago Bears stun Green Bay Packers with improbable rally as Caleb Williams finds DJ Moore for winning score in OT

Chicago Bears’ Epic Comeback: Caleb Williams and DJ Moore Secure Overtime Victory Against Packers

In a thrilling display of resilience, the Chicago Bears secured a 22-16…
Man gets maximum sentence in Lawrence County child sexual abuse case

Justice Served: Lawrence County Man Receives Maximum Sentence for Child Sexual Abuse Crime

In Lawrence County, Alabama, a man has been handed a 20-year state…
Weezer bassist's wife says 'world fell to pieces' after shooting

Heartbreaking Confession: Weezer Bassist’s Wife Opens Up About Devastating Shooting Aftermath

Scott Shriner, the bassist for Weezer, is facing personal turmoil as his…
'Going out like the rockstar that he was:' Jacksonville music community celebrates the life of Joe Starkey

Jacksonville Music Community Honors the Legacy of Rockstar Joe Starkey

At the start of December, a musician tragically lost his life in…
Moment shoplifter pulls out gun to shoot officer at point-blank range

Shocking Incident: Shoplifter Fires Gun at Officer at Point-Blank Range in Bold Daylight Crime

Chilling body camera footage reveals the intense moment when a bold shoplifter…
I'm a mechanic with half-million followers... avoid these 8 car brands

Mechanic with 500K Followers Reveals the 8 Car Brands You Should Steer Clear Of

Daimee Rosales rocketed to internet stardom through a viral video showcasing her…